Where is the best place to go in California?

The iconic cities of Los Angeles, San FranciscoandSan Diego each offer a totally different Californian experience, from all things Hollywood to offbeat and bohemian. But they all have one thing in common – the laid-back beach life is never far away.

For its stunning coastline, San Francisco’s dramatic peninsula won’t disappoint. The hilly streets provide striking glimpses of the sparkling bay and the famed Pacific Coast Highway creates one of the most scenic drives. For its vibrant social scene, Santa Monica’s lively promenade is the place to go, while the up-and-coming West Hollywood - with its hip designer boutiques, sidewalk cafes and renowned Sunset Strip will always deliver. For its beaches, San Diego has the best summer climate – perfect for taking full advantage of limitless water sports and a unique surf-inspired culture. For its family-friendly vibe, kids will love to see the native sea lions basking along the shore and a fun-filled day atLegoland® California Resort will always entertain. And for its incredible landscape – the towering forests of redwoods and wild splendour of Yosemite National Park or the epic grandeur of Southern Californian deserts will always satisfy.

Get the most out of your fly-drive holiday

Go where the mood takes you

Our fly-drive holidays include flights and car hire, in partnership with Avis, making it easy to explore California’s spectacular National Parks, dramatic deserts and stunning beaches. Pick up your car in Los Angeles, San Francisco or San Diego and create your own itinerary from there.

Los Angeles fly-drive

Whether you decide to explore the vast expanse of the Mojave Desert or decide to head straight to Las Vegas, a fly-drive opens up a wealth of opportunities.

Which holiday will you choose in California?

See more on a fly-drive

The best way to see the wide array of California's offerings is on a fly-drive holiday. Scenic Highway 1 stretches from the cool fog of San Francisco to the warm sunshine of Los Angeles, while Highway 395 showcases the amazing contrast between fiery Death Valley's deserts and the crisp alpine air of Mammoth Lakes. Or take the Highway 405 from Los Angeles to San Diego and head straight to the beautiful beach neighbourhood of La Jolla.

Enjoy some family time

The whole family will enjoy a trip to the original Disneyland or go behind the scenes at Universal Studios in Los Angeles. You’ll be spoilt for choice in San Diego, with SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment, Legoland® California and San Diego Zoo all vying for your attention. In San Francisco take a trip to Golden Gate Park, it has a multitude of attractions including The Koret Children’s Quarter, with its merry-go-round and playground or you can rent a paddle boat at Stowe Lake.

Lap up a luxury holiday

A forward thinking attitude and a love of the good life is always evident in California and luxury hotels provide an opulent oasis of calm. Some of our favourites include the distinguished Beverly Wilshire in Los Angeles, the sumptuous splendour of the Lodge at Torrey Pines in San Diego and the uncompromising attention to detail experienced at the Fairmont San Francisco. California’s diversity and emphasis on natural produce has also resulted in one of the most exciting food and wine scenes in the world.

Find a cheap holiday

Built on a history of chasing dreams and seizing opportunity, California knows how to cater to all tastes and budgets. We have carefully selected a wide range of great value for money hotels – Clarion Anaheim is perfectly located close to Disneyland, Sheraton Mission Valley is within easy reach of San Diego Zoo and Cova is in the heart of San Francisco, near Union Square.

Take a spa break

The desire to look good and feel great means that there are spas to suit every taste and budget from natural hot springs to opulent celebrity hangouts. Our spa hotels offer the perfect place to start - Loews Hollywood, Los Angeles, Palomar San Diego and The Westin St Francis in San Francisco all offer blissful treatments to restore and revive you.